Chairman of Barau Football Club of Kano, Alhaji Ibrahim Shittu Changi, has expressed confidence in his team’s chances of securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), despite a winless start in their opening match of the ongoing NNL Super 8 playoffs in Asaba.

Barau FC, who played out a goalless draw in their first game against Yobe Desert Stars, will face Doma United FC on matchday two in what is expected to be a heated Northern derby. Speaking to journalists at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Shittu Changi emphasized that his side remains focused and determined to bounce back.

“We all know the importance of starting the playoffs on a good note,” he said. “We failed to win our first game here in Asaba, despite an impressive display from my players. We dominated for long spells but just couldn’t find the back of the net. That said, we are even more determined now to correct our mistakes and ensure that we win our second game against Doma United.”

Barau FC’s rapid rise through Nigeria’s football tiers has turned heads in recent years. Owned by the Deputy Senate President, Hon. Jibrin Barau, the Kano-based club has climbed from the Nationwide League One (NLO) to the Nigeria National League (NNL) in just two seasons. Now, they are pushing for a historic promotion to the NPFL.

“Our journey so far has been nothing short of phenomenal,” Shittu Changi noted. “We’ve shown what proper planning, good leadership, and youth development can achieve in a short time. We’re not just here to participate—we’re here to secure a ticket to the NPFL and make Kano proud.”

As the Super 8 playoffs reach a critical stage, all eyes will be on the high-stakes encounter between Barau FC and Doma United. A victory could put Barau firmly back in the race for promotion, while a loss could jeopardize their NPFL hopes.

Barau FC’s ambitions and structured development have earned them praise across football circles, and many believe their story is a testament to the growing potential within the lower tiers of Nigerian football.